Securing a training contract is the critical first step toward a legal career, and choosing the right firm can make all the difference. If you are considering Clyde & Co, you are targeting one of the world’s leading law firms, with a strong reputation in insurance, shipping, aviation, energy, and international trade. With offices in London, Manchester, Guildford, and across the globe, Clyde & Co offers aspiring solicitors the chance to work on high-value matters in sectors that drive the global economy.
This article explores what makes Clyde & Co unique, what the firm looks for in its trainees, the application process, and how you can maximise your chances of securing a training contract.
About Clyde & Co
Clyde & Co is a top 50 global law firm, employing thousands of lawyers across more than 60 offices worldwide. It was founded in 1933 in London, originally as a boutique maritime practice, and has since grown into a global leader in insurance and reinsurance law, while expanding into corporate, commercial litigation, and regulatory work.
The firm is particularly well-known for its work in:
- Insurance and reinsurance – the largest practice of its kind in the world.
- Shipping, aviation, and trade – reflecting its historic strength in transport and logistics.
- Energy and infrastructure – advising on major international projects.
- Dispute resolution – handling complex, cross-border litigation and arbitration.
For trainees, Clyde & Co provides an environment that combines deep sector expertise with international exposure.
Why Apply for a Training Contract at Clyde & Co?
There are several reasons why Clyde & Co is a popular choice for aspiring solicitors:
- Sector expertise – Trainees gain experience in industries that underpin global commerce, such as insurance, shipping, and aviation.
- International opportunities – The firm’s global footprint provides scope for secondments or cross-border work.
- Early responsibility – With large client portfolios and specialist teams, trainees often get client contact early in their careers.
- Dispute resolution focus – If you’re interested in litigation or arbitration, Clyde & Co offers world-class training.
- Global reputation – A training contract here is a prestigious foundation for a career in commercial law.
What the Firm Looks For
Clyde & Co recruits a competitive trainee intake each year, and applicants must demonstrate more than just strong academics. The firm looks for candidates who can thrive in a commercial, international, and client-focused environment.
Key attributes include:
- Strong academics – A 2:1 degree or above is the usual benchmark.
- Commercial awareness – Understanding the challenges facing sectors like insurance and energy is vital.
- Communication skills – Both clear writing and confident verbal communication are essential.
- Teamwork – Collaboration across departments and offices is key to the firm’s culture.
- Resilience and adaptability – Trainees must manage demanding workloads and adapt to changing client needs.
- Global outlook – With its international network, Clyde & Co values candidates who can think across borders and cultures.
The Application Process
1. Online Application
The process begins with an online application form, asking for details about academics, experiences, and motivation for applying.
Tips:
- Tailor your answers to Clyde & Co’s strengths in insurance, shipping, and disputes.
- Demonstrate an international mindset — highlight language skills, travel, or cross-cultural experiences.
- Show why you want to work at Clyde & Co specifically, not just in commercial law generally.
2. Online Tests
Candidates may be asked to complete online assessments, such as situational judgement or logical reasoning tests.
Tips:
- Practise similar tests in advance to build familiarity.
- Stay calm under timed conditions and read carefully.
3. Assessment Centre
Successful applicants are invited to an assessment centre. This typically includes:
- Group exercises testing teamwork and communication.
- Written case studies assessing analytical skills and clarity.
- Interviews with partners or senior lawyers exploring motivation, commercial awareness, and competencies.
Tips:
- In group tasks, contribute constructively and listen actively.
- Structure your answers logically, showing clear reasoning.
- Be authentic — the firm values approachable and practical trainees.
4. Vacation Scheme Route
Like many top firms, Clyde & Co recruits most of its trainees through its vacation schemes. Performing well during the scheme is one of the most direct routes to a training contract.
What to Expect as a Trainee
A training contract at Clyde & Co lasts two years and is structured around four six-month seats. Seat options may include:
- Insurance and Reinsurance – advising global insurers and reinsurers on claims, coverage, and regulatory matters.
- Shipping and Aviation – working on disputes, contracts, and accidents involving international transport.
- Energy and Infrastructure – advising on major projects across oil, gas, renewables, and construction.
- Corporate and Commercial – handling transactions, M&A, and business contracts.
- Dispute Resolution – gaining experience in arbitration and cross-border litigation.
Trainees benefit from:
- Real responsibility, often involving direct client contact.
- Close supervision and mentoring from senior lawyers.
- Structured training sessions to build both legal and professional skills.
- Opportunities to work internationally, either through secondments or cross-border matters.
How to Stand Out
With so many applicants competing for limited places, it’s essential to differentiate yourself. Here’s how:
- Research thoroughly – Read about Clyde & Co’s recent cases, clients, and deals in key sectors.
- Show sector interest – Demonstrate enthusiasm for industries like insurance or shipping. A dissertation topic, internship, or even personal interest can help.
- Demonstrate commercial awareness – Be ready to discuss current issues, such as how climate change impacts insurers or how global trade affects shipping.
- Highlight resilience – Show examples of times you managed pressure, deadlines, or setbacks effectively.
- Be authentic – The firm values personable, practical trainees who can build long-term client relationships.
Example Interview Questions
Candidates often face questions like:
- Why do you want to train at Clyde & Co?
- What do you know about our key sectors, such as insurance or energy?
- Tell us about a time you worked effectively in a team.
- How would you explain a complex issue to a non-law client?
- What global trends do you think will impact our clients over the next five years?
Preparing thoughtful, structured answers to these will help you shine.
How LawGrad Launch Can Help
At LawGrad Launch, we know how competitive training contracts are at global firms like Clyde & Co. You’ll need more than strong academics — you’ll need applications, commercial awareness, and interview skills that set you apart.
That’s where we can help. We provide tailored one-to-one support to give you the edge:
- Application coaching – Crafting applications that highlight your strengths and align with Clyde & Co’s culture.
- Commercial awareness guidance – Helping you understand the challenges facing insurers, shipping companies, and energy providers.
- Assessment centre preparation – Practising group tasks, case studies, and written exercises with expert feedback.
- Interview coaching – Building confidence and ensuring you can deliver clear, persuasive answers.
We’ve supported students in securing training contracts at top UK firms, and we can do the same for you.
Final Thoughts
Clyde & Co offers an exceptional training contract opportunity for aspiring solicitors who want to combine global exposure with sector expertise. With its leading reputation in insurance, disputes, and international trade, the firm provides trainees with a strong foundation for a career in commercial law.
To succeed, you’ll need to demonstrate academic ability, commercial awareness, resilience, and a genuine interest in the firm’s industries. By tailoring your application, preparing thoroughly for assessments, and showing authenticity in interviews, you can put yourself in the best position to secure a training contract.
At LawGrad Launch, we’re here to support you every step of the way. From application strategy to interview confidence, we’ll help you maximise your potential.
Get in touch with us today — and take the next step towards securing your training contract at Clyde & Co.